In modern life, there are few experiences that parallel the devastating emotional and physical effects of cancer. Everything, from attempted prevention to fighting the daily symptoms, is a struggle and requires precise knowledge gathered from the correct sources. However, when you do have this knowledge, it can help you finally relax and assess the situation. This article has some ideas that can make living with cancer easier.
The earlier cancer is detected the better your chances are. The best way to detect cancer early is to talk with your doctor about a regular schedule for the appropriate tests, which are able to find cancer long before you have any symptoms. For cancers like testes and breast, you can do self-examinations on a monthly basis to check for anything that might not seem right.
Skin Cancer
Exposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer. Skin cancer is a very common type of cancer. Two essential tools to protect yourself from the constant barrage of UV rays are a hat and high-SPF sunscreen.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer you need to quit smoking right away. Some cancer patients mistakenly reason that there is no point in quitting since they’re already sick. Cigarettes are loaded with carcinogens, which impair your body’s ability to bounce back from the effects of cancer.
Be aware of certain changes that may take place as you undergo cancer therapy. Your oncologist can give you a summary of what may happen when you undergo cancer treatment. If hair loss is possible, you might want to buy a wig or if your complexion gets pale, you may need new makeup to help you feel more comfortable.
A lot of folks out there have outdated ideas about cancer. Some think cancer may be contagious and that you can’t work anymore. Address other people’s concerns as honestly as you can, and don’t be afraid to share your own feelings about what you’re going through.
If a loved one receives a diagnosis of cancer, make yourself available to them. While it can be emotionally difficult for you, listening to their fears can help to keep them positive and help them heal. Don’t give your opinions or interrupt, simply listen.
Colon Cancer
Educate yourself on the symptoms of specific types of cancer, such as colon cancer, in order to catch them early. Some of the symptoms of colon cancer include sudden weight loss, bloody or thin stools and excessive cramping. If you have any colon cancer symptoms, don’t procrastinate about making an appointment. Early detection is key to keeping colon cancer under control.
Many people think that smoking only causes emphysema and lung cancer; however, smoking also causes colon cancer. Smoking can contribute to colon cancer because the inhaled smoke transmits carcinogens to your colon and can also cause enlarged colon polyps. These reasons are just more on top of the hundreds of other reasons to stop smoking.
Feeling depressed can deteriorate your health and weaken your immune system, which may cause cancer to spread. If a cancer patient becomes depressed, he may give up on trying to defeat cancer and refuse to do anything the doctor suggests to prolong his life or enhance its quality.
What you think will happen may in fact not happen. Have appreciation for all support you get.
Loved Ones
Make sure that you communicate with others. When you are receiving insufficient support from loved ones, do not be afraid to address your needs with them. Be kind as you explain to your loved ones why you need further support and how they can help. However, you do need to be cautious. This time is difficult. Go forward always using love as the foundation for support. Be decisive!
Always be ready to fight! You’ll maximize your chances for victory over the cancer if you go into it with a fighting attitude.
Never believe the hype that alcohol actually prevents cancer! Wine can help prevent cancer, but it is not the wine itself, it’s because of the grapes. Drinking too much alcohol will increase the risk of cancer.
Help a loved one or friend who has cancer to find a network of support people to share their experiences with. Check with your local hospitals and clinics, as well as online, for support groups. Having this release outlet can be a huge emotional benefit.
There are many types of clothing that aren’t going to keep the sun from damaging your skin. Take the time to shop for clothes that are labeled as UV protective. If you are unable to find suitable options in your area, consider browsing the Internet.
Prevention of cancer is the best treatment. Skin cancer can be prevented by avoiding overexposure to the sun. In any instance when you will be spending a long period in the sun, apply an adequate sunscreen product to all areas of your skin.
The word cancer can cause sheer fear. Remember what you’ve learned and keep fighting to make your life what you want it to be.